Things to do in Anchorage, AK

Alaska's largest city boasts a spectacular physical setting. Nestled in the center of six mountain ranges, on a clear day North America's tallest mountain—Mt. McKinley, or "Denali" as the Natives call it—is visible from the downtown. More than 60 glaciers are within 50 miles of Anchorage, and the third largest state park in the nation is fully encompassed within the city's boundaries. Living this close to nature's grandeur, it isn't surprising that the locals are outdoorsy folks. The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail lures recreational joggers, cross country skiers and more than a few bicycle-riding commuters. Signs along the trail remind users that bear and moose have the right-of-way—not something you usually associate with an urban area. Far from being a city of hunters and lumberjacks, the 70s boom in oil prices gave Anchorage the money to build itself into a sophisticated cultural center. The city boasts a symphony, an opera company and a performing arts center than hosts numerous concerts and theatrical productions. This city of contrasts—the state's commercial center in a sylvan setting—is appealing to many: more than 40% of Alaska's total population calls Anchorage home.

Alaska's largest city boasts a spectacular physical setting. Nestled in the center of six mountain ranges, on a clear day North America's tallest mountain—Mt. McKinley, or "Denali" as the Natives call it—is visible from the downtown. More than 60 glaciers are within 50 miles of Anchorage, and the third largest state park in the nation is fully encompassed within the city's boundaries. Living this close to nature's grandeur, it isn't surprising that the locals are outdoorsy folks. The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail lures recreational joggers, cross country skiers and more than a few bicycle-riding commuters. Signs along the trail remind users that bear and moose have the right-of-way—not something you usually associate with an urban area. Far from being a city of hunters and lumberjacks, the 70s boom in oil prices gave Anchorage the money to build itself into a sophisticated cultural center. The city boasts a symphony, an opera company and a performing arts center than hosts numerous concerts and theatrical productions. This city of contrasts—the state's commercial center in a sylvan setting—is appealing to many: more than 40% of Alaska's total population calls Anchorage home.